Nigerian actor and filmmaker, Kanayo O. Kanayo, has made headlines once again, this time for issuing a humorous yet stern ultimatum to his daughter, Valerie, on her 25th birthday. The veteran Nollywood star, known for his iconic roles in Nigerian films, has shared a public message on social media that mixes humour with fatherly advice, sparking conversations among his fans and followers.
In his post, Kanayo, who has been a dominant figure in the Nigerian film industry for decades, congratulated his daughter on reaching the milestone of 25 years. However, what followed was an unexpected yet playful message that has since caught the attention of many.
As Valerie, also known by her native name “Uloaku” (meaning “House of Wealth”), celebrated her special day, her father encouraged her to reflect seriously on her life and her future. Kanayo used the occasion as an opportunity to offer some valuable advice that would resonate with many young Nigerians, particularly those in their twenties who are at a crossroads in their personal and professional lives.
Kanayo’s heartfelt post began with a congratulatory message for his daughter. He described how proud he was to see her transition from a young girl into a woman, calling her “prospective Madam Uloaku” in reference to her native name. However, the actor then delved into a candid reflection on their relationship, specifically addressing a concern that has been a recurring topic between them: his frequent absences due to work commitments.
“My dear daughter, Uloaku, congratulations on your 25th birthday. From little Valerie to a prospective Madam Uloaku,” Kanayo began his post, before addressing the issue that his daughter often complains about—his busy travel schedule. He explained that his constant absences were due to his success and relevance in the film industry, which requires him to travel frequently for his acting jobs.
“You always complain about me being away from home, but good actors travel because they are always hired. Thank God I am still very active and relevant. Try and tolerate me,” he humorously noted, acknowledging that his daughter’s frustration was understandable, but he was simply doing what he loved and what was necessary to maintain his career.
While the sentiment was loving, the next part of the message took a more serious tone. Kanayo, always a strong advocate for education, personal growth, and the importance of achieving life milestones, set a clear expectation for Valerie as she entered her late twenties.
As a father, Kanayo wanted to ensure that his daughter was on the right path to achieving her personal and professional goals. And so, in a move that can only be described as both humorous and direct, the actor set a three-year deadline for Valerie. By the time she reaches 28, he wants to see her accomplish one of three things: get married, pursue a PhD, or move out of his house.
“In all these, please ensure that before 2027, you are either walking down the aisle, going for your PhD, or walking out of my house. Simpliciter,” Kanayo stated, leaving no room for debate.
While some may find his approach humorous, others view it as a tough yet loving call to action. For many young people, the idea of achieving major milestones by their late twenties is not uncommon, especially in a culture where societal expectations around marriage, career success, and independence are often placed on individuals at this stage of life.
Kanayo’s words have sparked a wider conversation about the pressure young Nigerians face in terms of achieving major milestones by a certain age. In many Nigerian families, there is an expectation that individuals should be settled by their late twenties, whether in terms of marriage, career, or personal growth. These pressures, however, often conflict with the increasing desire among younger generations to take their time, pursue their passions, and forge their own paths.
For Valerie, the message from her father, though humorous, reflects a larger cultural expectation many young people face in Nigeria. While some may see the ultimatum as too direct or too soon, others may understand it as a call to action, a reminder that life is short and the years go by quickly.
Marriage, education, and independence are all significant aspects of personal growth in Nigerian society. For many, achieving these milestones is not only a reflection of personal accomplishment but also a step toward societal acceptance and respect. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is unique, and while some may find success early, others may take longer to find their true path.
While Kanayo’s ultimatum may seem firm, it’s clear that his message comes from a place of deep love and care for his daughter. In his post, he highlights how proud he is of Valerie and how grateful he is for her presence in his life. His words are not just about pushing her to achieve milestones—they’re also about making sure she is prepared for the future, no matter what path she chooses.
Kanayo has always been a figure of strength and resilience, and his advice to Valerie reflects his desire for her to grow into a strong, independent woman who can stand on her own two feet while achieving her dreams. While his message is direct, it’s also a reflection of the tough love many parents in Nigeria offer their children as they navigate adulthood.
The post has generated a lot of attention, not just for the content but for the public nature of the message. Many young Nigerians can relate to the pressure to meet expectations from their parents, whether regarding marriage, education, or career. Kanayo’s post has sparked discussions on social media about the importance of striking a balance between cultural expectations and personal aspirations.
Kanayo O. Kanayo’s public message to his daughter is a perfect example of how African parents blend humor, wisdom, and love in their interactions with their children. It shows that while the pressures of adulthood can be daunting, they also come with opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and the chance to make one’s own decisions.
